Root Intrusion Clears Sewer Backup — Minneapolis
Minneapolis, Hennepin County, MN — Drain Cleaning & Line Jetting
The Problem
Homeowner reported slow drains across all fixtures — kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry — all degrading simultaneously over about three weeks. The basement toilet began backing up during heavy use. The homeowner had already tried a store-bought auger on the kitchen line with no result. Clear sign of a main line blockage rather than an isolated drain issue.
What We Found & Did
Camera inspection run from the cleanout identified a heavy root mass at approximately 45 feet from the cleanout, consistent with root intrusion at a clay tile joint beneath a mature elm in the front yard. The root mass had narrowed the effective pipe diameter to roughly 30%. Hydro-jetted the line from the cleanout, breaking up and flushing the root mass. Second camera pass confirmed full, open passage. Advised homeowner that roots at this joint will regrow — recommended recheck in 18 months and discussed pipe lining as a long-term solution for that section.